Riverside Discovery Center is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kei Hodgson as its new Executive Director. Hodgson brings a wealth of experience in non-profit leadership, education and community engagement to this role.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Kei to the Riverside Discovery Center team,” said Tiffany Schank, Zoo board president. “His passion for environmental education and his proven ability to build strong community partnerships will be invaluable as we continue to inspire and educate visitors about the wonders of the natural world.”
Hodgson joins Riverside Discovery Center from Cango Wildlife Ranch, where he managed several sections of the Wildlife Ranch, as well as directed staff, worked in fundraising and several other aspects of the Cango Wildlife Ranch day-to-day functions.
“For any business to achieve 75 years of operation is a remarkable achievement, and I am honored to be selected to lead the zoo into its next 75.” Hodgson said. “I look forward to working hand in hand with the staff and engaging with the community to continue Riverside Discovery Center’s storied history of environmental education. We have a history of bringing families together, and we are going to continue that mission as always, while looking at new and exciting ventures that will continue to make RDC a staple in Midwest conservation and education.”
In addition to this, last month Riverside Discovery Center also appointed Mandi Shemenski from interim head zookeeper to their permanent title of head zookeeper. “We are excited to welcome Mandi into the permanent head zookeeper title, her dedication to the zoo is inspiring and we are excited for the team we are creating at Riverside Discovery Center” Tiffany Schank said.